Oxyethira forcipata
Mosely, 1934
microcaddisfly
Oxyethira forcipata is a of microcaddisfly described by Mosely in 1934. It belongs to the Hydroptilidae, which contains the smallest members of the order Trichoptera. The species is known from North America and is characterized by reduced wing venation typical of the .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Oxyethira forcipata: /ˌɒksɪˈɛθɪrə fɔːrˈsɪpətə/
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Identification
Members of Oxyethira can be distinguished from other hydroptilid by the distinctive wing venation pattern, with extremely reduced branching. O. forcipata specifically may be identified by male genitalic structures described in the original description, though specific diagnostic features require examination of .
Distribution
North America (Nearctic region).
Similar Taxa
- Other Oxyethira speciesCongeneric share reduced wing venation and small size; identification to species level requires examination of genitalic .
- Other Hydroptilidae generaSimilar minute size and simplified wing structure; distinguished by specific wing venation patterns and genitalic characters.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The specific epithet 'forcipata' refers to the forceps-like structure of the male genitalia, a common naming convention in the .